Tumelo Rakumako, affectionately known as Big Star Johnson, was crowned the champion of hip-hop TV reality show The Hustle last year and recently said he is ready to step up his hustle in the music industry.
The Joburg-based musician, who recently released his debut single called My Year featuring Aewon Wolf, said that things have changed after winning the Vuzu.tv competition.
WATCH: Big Star Johnson sending a shout out to his fans:
“A lot has changed, more especially in terms of performances and the audience’s response to whatever I say. Signing to record label Vth Season, there is so much that I am learning about the music, it’s more than just the talent, it goes past writing bars,” he said.
Big Star applauded the progress made by the South African hip-hop industry over the years. “I feel like it is definitely on the rise, it’s growing. There are a lot of businesses and corporate companies that want to start investing in rappers.”
LISTEN: Big Star Johnson in an exclusive interview:
The 24-year-old artist said he is inspired by musicians who dare to be different such as HHP, Aka and Proverb. “Musicians who never chased the money, but who chased a good message,” he said.
The Hustle Season 1 champion said people can expect more music from him this year and a whole lot of collaborations. “The album is definitely coming, I am really excited with my album, and the sound,” Big Star Johnson concluded.